Thousands flock to the McManus

Public response to the revamped McManus Galleries shows its £12 million refurbishment project had been a resounding success, Dundee councillors heard last night, writes Brian Allison, local government reporter.

The McManus re-opened just over a week ago after having been closed for around four years while a major upgrade was carried out.

Councillor Bob Duncan, convener of leisure, arts and communities, said it is back "bigger and better."

He said around 200 people queued to wait for the galleries to re-open on February 28 and there were more than 2000 visitors on the first day.

"The galleries have been doing phenomenal business with an average of 1700 visitors a day since they re-opened," he said.

He paid tribute to all those involved in the refurbishment.

A further boost will come when the galleries house the £50 million Titian masterpiece Diana and Actaeon between August 6 and September 5.

Labour spokesman Councillor Richard McCready said he was hugely impressed by the number of visitors.

"It is clear that Dundonians have taken it back to their hearts again," he said.

http://www.themcmanus-dundee.gov.uk/